Mobile phone technology has advanced significantly since the introduction of the Motorola DynaTac (aka “the banana brick”) in the early 1980s. Twenty-two years into the 21st century, we’ve seen telecommunications evolve from just being a way to talk long distance to text messages, mobile video conferencing, high-definition video streaming, ride-share apps, and even newer implementations including augmented reality. The backbone of those advancements in mobile phone technology have always been connection standards—from 1G to 4G LTE. Now, with the recent announcement that Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband is expanding, connectivity is poised to be pushed into a bold new frontier.
Verizon helped usher in the next generation connection standard back in 2019 by being the first carrier in the world to launch a commercial 5G mobile network. With 5G Ultra Wideband, they’ll now provide speeds that are up to 10 times faster than 4G LTE, covering 100 million people this month. Connection speeds are so fast that 5G Ultra Wideband can be used to support home internet with Verizon 5G Home.
However, 5G Ultra Wideband isn’t just about faster data rates for movie streaming apps, uploading content to social media, or more stabilized connections when playing mobile multiplayer games on the go. The newest generation of mobile connectivity is expected to change how people communicate and interact with the world at large. During their 5G Ultra Show in early January, Verizon discussed extensively how sporting events, public internet access, mobile gaming and home internet utilizing its 5G Ultra Wideband can change those experiences for the better.
Higher speeds and lower latency could potentially lead to revolutions in various industries including the healthcare sector. While wearable connected devices like watches and glasses are becoming all the rage, 5G could expand the capabilities of wearable monitoring equipment for people with diabetes or heart issues. We could also imagine a world in the near future where physicians can not only diagnose patients remotely, but potentially perform surgery from across the country.
5G speeds and latency could also improve artificial intelligence and how it’s integrated within technology. Utilizing the 5G Edge platform services, AI-enabled applications could analyze and learn various systems more efficiently than ever before. In an age where conversations about autonomous vehicles are becoming the norm, faster connection speeds mean convenience. During the 5G Ultra Show Verizon representatives spoke on how 5G Ultra Wideband technology can enhance the ability for those connected vehicles to communicate with one another in near real-time for a safer commute.
Another way in which Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband can positively impact our world is through faster cloud computing, which may even change the future of advertising. As virtual and augmented reality become more widespread, 5G has the ability to make the sales experience more akin to being in an actual store. Faster connection speeds should mean instead of simply getting photos or simple 360-degree views, consumers can get more audio/visual information. Trying on clothes or the latest sneakers and interacting with various products will never be the same. Additionally, making those transactions in the era where more people are using digital wallets could mean a speedier and safer overall experience.
Much has been spoken about how 5G can affect mobile gaming as AR begins to be the norm post-Pokemon Go’s popularity. Because in an age where Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Now, Google Stadia, and Amazon Luna allow AAA games to be played on the go, current 4G speeds aren’t adequate enough to support this. The high speeds possible with 5G Ultra Wideband, however, are good enough to enjoy cloud-based gaming at crystal clear resolutions.
In a time where so much is dependent on information and access, technology is playing a bigger part in how we work, learn, and live. Verizon envisions a future where everything is connected seamlessly and securely. Now with 5G Ultra Wideband on the horizon, the potential for innovation and creativity will become even more limitless.
